Mancos High volleyball impressive in season opener

What an exciting night for Mancos High School volleyball. Playing in their first match under head coach Brittany Lang, the Bluejays played extremely well, recording a 3-1 road-victory over the Ridgway High School Demons.

After winning the first set handily by a score of 25-20, the Bluejays ran into trouble in the second, dropping the set 26-24.

Looking to rebound in the third set, the Bluejays played well, recording a 25-22 set victory.

Hoping to close out the match in the fourth set, the Bluejays fought off Demons' charges before eventually eking out a 25-23 set victory.

As impressive as the Bluejays' victory was, getting the win did not appear to be a sure thing, especially during warm-ups.

"The girls were definitely nervous seeing the other team hit," said Lang. "We talked about what it takes to have hope and dig deep. They were so tenacious. Their movement was disciplined and their talking was consistent."

While multiple Bluejays' players performed well in the victory, Lang was especially impressed with her setters, Nicole Hess and Jessica Gutierrez.

"Our setters were consistent with their talking and their movement," said Lang. "They did a great job."

Also playing a key role in the Bluejays victory was defensive specialist, Jessica Wilburn.

"(Wilburn's) reading is magnificent," said Lang. "She is really smart and knowledgeable about the game."

Speaking about the experience of her first high school volleyball match as a head coach, Lang said, "I was definitely kind of nervous. After the game, I was definitely shaking. I was so proud of the team."

With their sights set on continuing to play well and thrilling the home crowd, the Bluejays will return to action on Sept. 5 at home against the Durango Junior Varsity team.